Wirral Council is rethinking its plans to re-open historic Hamilton Square to traffic after a public backlash against the idea.

The authority has extended the consultation period for the proposed £1.1m changes and is presenting a new option to open up parts of the Square to two-way traffic while the pedestrianised area outside Birkenhead Town Hall is kept.

Council leader Cllr Phil Davies said: “We have paid attention to the views of residents, businesses and employees, particularly those living and working in the area, and have gathered their concerns about and support for the scheme.

"They have commented on traffic and parking issues, access to civic space, and the need to support economic regeneration, improve personal safety and attract new business in the Square.

“I have asked officers to extend the consultation period and present new proposals that address the issues already raised.

"We will also look to balance the community’s desire to retain a civic parade and ceremony area around the Cenotaph and town hall with the benefits of easily bringing visitors, businesses and customers back into the Square.”

He added: "We all want to achieve our long-held ambition to rejuvenate Hamilton Square, protect the special character it has, and bring jobs and business back to the heart of Birkenhead.”

The extended consultation began today, Thursday, December 17, and will continue until January 15, allowing businesses and residents to review and comment on the revised proposals.

Share article Two drop-in sessions are planned as part of the consultation on January 7 and January 8 , from 3pm until 7pm, at Birkenhead Town Hall, where members of the council’s regeneration and highways teams will be on hand to answer questions and explain the schemes.

Comments also can be given online by visiting www.wirral.gov.uk/birkenheadregeneration.